Former Member of Parliament Prajwal Revanna has been sentenced to life imprisonment for repeatedly raping a 47-year-old woman. The Special Court for elected representatives, presided over by Judge Santhosh Gajanan Bhat, delivered the maximum punishment under Sections 376(2)(n) and 376(2)(k) of the Indian Penal Code, along with a ₹10 lakh fine—₹7 lakh of which is to be paid as compensation to the survivor.
Section 376(2)(n) applies to repeated sexual assaults on the same woman, while 376(2)(k) pertains to rape committed while holding a position of influence over the victim. This is one of four cases against Prajwal involving sexual abuse and molestation.
The woman, known as Mridula (name changed), was employed as a labourer at Revanna’s family farm in Hassan district. She was assaulted on multiple occasions—twice at the farmhouse and once at the Bengaluru family home. Evidence included video recordings, voice matches, room backgrounds, and the woman’s consistent testimony.
Special Public Prosecutor BN Jagadeesha argued that the survivor attempted suicide after explicit videos went viral. He emphasized Prajwal’s lack of remorse and efforts to mislead authorities. Another prosecutor, Ashok Naik, highlighted Prajwal’s abuse of authority and the survivor’s public humiliation.
During sentencing, Prajwal claimed he had an unblemished political record and pleaded for leniency, citing political motives and personal achievements. However, the court, acknowledging the severity of the crime and its societal impact, ruled for a stringent sentence.